Crows and blue jays
are the birds most likely to die when infected with West Nile virus (WNV).
Other birds such as sparrows, common grackles, owls, and hawks may also
become infected with WNV and die. Public
health agencies often track or test dead birds because they may be the first
sign of WNV activity in an area. The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) no longer tests dead birds for the presence of West Nile virus (WNV).

Birds that die from WNV infection usually are found by themselves and not as
part of a mass die-off at a single time and place. If you find a cluster of
dead birds or other wildlife, the primary cause of death may not be WNV. Before
you report the incident here, please inform your local wildlife officials
about the incident.

Please DO NOT REPORT birds that are decomposed, have maggots, smell bad, or are
dried out. We are interested in birds that have recently died. Only report dead
birds found in the state of Missouri.

To Dispose of a Dead Bird:

Avoid
contact with any fluids coming out of the bird.

Wear
plastic or latex gloves or use several leak-proof plastic bags as a glove.